often baffled by what’s possible. ‘How can you live comfortably in 200 square feet?’ they ask. Then when we show them the plans and renders, they’re blown away. They can’t believe how well it works. And they can’t believe they could build basically a second home on their property.” Of course, getting additional coach homes approved by municipal authorities can potentially be a challenge, but Ottawa General Contractors has a close relationship with senior planners at the city. Over the years, they have earned a high level of trust among those partners, Nick believes because they have proven that their genuine goal is to make the city a better place. “They give us great feedback and they help us get great projects built,” Nick says. “Our relationship is wonderful.” Ottawa General Contractors is currently constructing an eight-unit building in the Vanier area. According to Nick, the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) actually approved that project because “we’re the ones building it.” “They approved it because they know we’re going to take care of everything and get it done,” Nick says. “And it’s going to add more affordable units to an area that really needs it, which is fantastic.” The company is also planning an upcoming project in Nepean, where they intend to build a 30-unit building in an area where they would normally only be allowed to build three or four units. Nick is confident they will get the exceptions necessary, however, because of the great need for housing in the area and because of the trust Ottawa General Contractors has built over the years among the relevant authorities. OCTOBER 2024
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